Who said little towns do not have much to offer? Well, Aus is but a little desert town in the south of Namibia, nestled in the ||Karas Region.
This quaint town is snuggled between the most visited towns in the south, namely Lüderitz (125 km away) and Keetmanshoop (215 km away).
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Most people just stop in Aus for a quick bite or to fill up their vehicle’s tank rather than entertaining the thought of exploring Aus.
When heading to the south of this country, consider discovering it differently by including Aus on your holiday itinerary. If you do, here are some of the highlights of wandering about in this little desert town and its surrounding landscapes:
- On the barren plains of Garub, only 20 km from Aus on the eastern border of the Namib Desert, you will see glimpses of Wild Horses manoeuvring in search for their daily sustenance. These movements with the open desert landscape induce a sense of freedom and peace.
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- If you are more the adventurous type, then mountain biking in the Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park would be ideal. It allows for exploring the dreamy mountainous scenery of Aus. Cycling tracks are laid out in style within the park and cater for both intermediate and advanced cyclists.
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- If you would much rather delight in exploring the Gondwana Sperrgebiet Rand Park and surrounding areas by foot,there are marked hiking trails that serve as a guide, while you enjoy and learn about the scenery, flora and fauna.
- The few remains of the ‘prisoner of war camp’ (POW) are also worth visiting for those interested in history, as it was where captured German soldiers were imprisoned after the First World War by the South African army. The remains of this camp can be visited and are located 5 km east of Aus. A memorial stone was erected at the site, which has been proclaimed a national monument.
- The Aus-Commonwealth Cemetery is definitely worth visiting as well. It is renowned for being the resting place of those who perished in the Spanish flu pandemic. One grave worth viewing is that of Mary Ann 'Breeza' Nelson, who was a qualified nurse during that period and also the wife of Major Edward Irving Nelson the Garrison Adjutant. She was buried with military honours as she lost her life while on duty and trying to save others.
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- There are various quality and affordable accommodation establishments you can stay at in the area, such as the private and quiet Eagles Nest Chalets
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and Desert Horse Inn or perhaps you prefer a more adventurous option such as the Desert Horse Campsite or Geisterschlucht Cabin.
Also, there is the Bahnhof Hotel Aus for the city slickers
- And remember to enjoy the beer-battered hake fillet with a mini salad or crispy fried-barbeque Buffalo wings after a long day of exploring at the Bahnhof Hotel Aus Restaurant.
If you ever wondered what to do in Aus, now you know! So, stopover, go explore the gorgeous landscapes with the breathtaking backdrop of the Aus Mountains, and absorb elements of this little desert town’s history.
Why is Aus worth exploring? If you have visited before, what are some things that you have delighted in? Share with us in the comment section below.
Author – I’m Nela, from Windhoek Namibia but born in a small village called Omatunda in northern Namibia. I am passionate about writing, research and photography, as it helps me gain knowledge about people and my country.
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